‘Bridges to Work’

Aims & objectives

The seminar aimed to achieve inspiration – networking – funding – projects – visibility – support for people working on youth employment & entrepreneurship.
Linking youth (work), employment & entrepreneurship.

Target group & international/intercultural composition of the group & team

• 25 youth employment projects
• 25 job-seekers from these projects
• 25 job centres and employers
• 25 support & funding programmes (YiA, LLP, ESF,…)
• 25 experts, researchers, policy makers, VIPs…
From all over Europe.

Training methods used & main activities

Bridges to Work’ an international conference & seminar for people working on youth employment and entrepreneurship in Oct 2011 in Antwerp, Belgium. I was selected to work with the unemployed young people. The two groups discussed the same employment issues but from different perspectives. At strategic moments in the programme, their respective views were shared to enrich the discussions and to root the different suggestions in reality. With a co-trainer we designed the programme using innovate and creative activities including drama methods that ensured active participation for all.

Outcomes of the activity

1. Expert inputs on youth employment & entrepreneurship
2. Inspiration from great employment practices
3. Network with relevant stakeholders
4. Visibility for your employment actions
5. Info about funding & support programmes
6. Feedback on your employment projects
7. Influence European approaches to work
Publication 'Bridges to Work' available on Salto website.

Your tasks and responsibilities within the team

I was selected to work with 25 unemployed young people from all over Europe. Some of the time their mentors were part of the group.
With my co-facilitator I designed and facilitated the young person's workshops.

I worked on this training for 3 days days as a full time trainer.